WHICH Would You Rather? To (Go) Digital Or NOT To (Go) Digital, That Is The Question...

About two years ago, I remember thinking it very clearly: I want a simple car. I don't want a digital instrument panel. Nor do I want more screens elsewhere in my vehicle.

I've heard crow doesn't taste THAT bad.

Fast forward to present day. More and more of the latest and greatest automobiles feature digital screens. From the instrument panel to stacked screens in the center stack and console. They're everywhere. Originally, the thought really bothered me. Mostly because AT SOME POINT these screens are gonna go kaput. Then what? You're left with a helluva tab, that's what.

Also, many of the first digital IPs didn't think outside of the box. Many featured the traditional setup of a speedometer next to a tachometer. If you were lucky some components were adjustable or configurable. Today it's much different as the IP can switch based on driver modes or, in some cases, you can set it up each "zone" exactly how you wish.

It's great if you're a technology fan.

Recently, I had the chance to drive the new Ford Mustang Bullitt. While it was one of the most fun vehicles I've driven in recent memory, I liked other things I wouldn't have guessed before I got behind the wheel. One of my favorite items was the fully digital instrument panel that adjusted based on driving modes. It was splendid and, most importantly, easy-to-read.

Here's the funny thing though. The following week when I hopped into a Mustang Shelby GT350, I was confronted with a traditional set of gauges — I was TOTALLY bummed. I wanted the digital IP back, which is something I never thought I'd say.

So, I've got to ask, Spies: WHICH would you rather? Would you rather traditional gauges OR the digital screen?

MDarringer - 8/16/2019 8:13:50 AM

+1 Boost

Traditional gauges for me.

CANADIANCOMMENTS - 8/16/2019 9:36:29 AM

-1 Boost

Standard gauges and buttons please. They never break and are easy to fix when the time comes. Touch screens and digital gauges not so much.

trboaccord - 8/16/2019 5:34:02 PM

+2 Boost

Digital is incredible when done correctly like Audi and now in many VWs. The option to customize the screen and what you view along with full screen nav is critical.

TomM - 8/16/2019 6:07:30 PM

+2 Boost

While it may not be the case just yet - eventually the cost of a digital Dash will simply be cheaper to produce (For the manufacturer) than a group of individual gauges - and since they can make a digital display LOOK LIKE a group of Analog Gauges - the old Analog Gauges went the way of the crank windows.

However - todays Gauges are NOT individual even if they look like it - and are largely a part of Display Gauge unit (Or board) that must be bought whole anyway. That is for ease of assembly. SO it is already too late.

CANADIANCOMMENTS - 8/16/2019 8:51:51 PM

0 Boost

You can see the difference in approach if you compare the F8 Tributo and the SF90 hybrid car. The F8 is mechanical and while the dash as a screen it is still very much a Ferrari and motorsport inspired. The SF90 has a steering wheel with buttons that are slick and light up. This approach with a digital dash is a bit too slick and a bit too far away from where the brand should be. Luxury cars can have all the digital toys if need by. But pur sports cars should tread carefully when it comes to this technology to ensure it does not detract from the experience.

skytop - 8/18/2019 5:54:35 PM

+1 Boost

I was in the analogue camp but since my C7, I have become a digital instrument fan. Intelligent tech design when done right cannot be beat.

senft - 8/19/2019 7:19:10 AM

+1 Boost

I’d love a customizable instrument panel. What I really don’t like is replacing HVAC and music buttons and knobs with a touchscreen.

MDarringer - 8/19/2019 8:25:04 AM

+1 Boost

I agree.